Actor Simu Liu spotted wearing a Jacob & Co

Simu Liu, best known for his role as Marvel's Shang-Chi, was recently spotted on the wrist with a Jacob & Co Epic X Chrono in black DLC titanium — reference EC311.21.SB.RB.A — a watch that announces itself loudly without resorting to precious metals or diamonds, which is a notable choice within Jacob & Co's typically extravagant catalogue.

The Epic X Chrono is built around a manual-winding skeletonized movement, its architecture deliberately exposed through the dial side. The red mineral crystal dial on this particular reference — a deep, translucent crimson — acts less as a traditional dial and more as a color filter over the movement, creating depth and contrast against the matte black DLC-treated titanium case. The case measures 44mm and sits at roughly 16.5mm in thickness, proportions typical of the Epic X family. DLC — Diamond-Like Carbon — coating provides both scratch resistance and a tactical, blacked-out aesthetic that softens the watch's inherently aggressive geometry.

The Epic X line was introduced to give Jacob & Co a foothold in the serious sport-complication segment, a credible counterweight to the brand's diamond-set statement pieces. The X-shaped skeletonized bridges are the collection's signature motif, giving the movement a structural, almost industrial legibility. The chronograph function is integrated into this architecture with column-wheel control, operated via pushers set into the angular case flanks.

For collectors, the Epic X Chrono occupies an interesting position: it is accessible relative to Jacob & Co's high-jewellery offerings, yet distinct enough in design language to read as a genuine collector's choice rather than a name-brand purchase. The red mineral crystal variant is among the more visually committed executions in the line, appealing to buyers who want the skeletonized movement to carry a chromatic punch.

Liu's affinity for statement watches is well documented on his social channels, and the Epic X Chrono EC311.21.SB.RB.A — listed at approximately $28,000 — aligns with his taste for pieces that combine technical credibility with unapologetic visual boldness.